At Days End

I had a lot of fun playing with the colours in this one. I actually trusted my very old and very faded colour wheel to guide me with the palette… and it turns out it still knows what it’s doing. Sometimes the old tools are the best ones.

To me, he feels like he’s standing quietly at the end of the day, looking straight into the setting sun after a long day in the saddle. There’s that moment when the work is done, the light is soft, and everything slows down for a minute. That’s the feeling I kept thinking about while I was painting this.

I love those quiet, reflective moments in the bush, and I think that’s what has found its way into this piece.

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I paint and draw what I see in my world. As a self-taught artist, I’ve been drawing all my life, but since 2009, I’ve truly dedicated myself to my craft. My work is bold, bright, and real, capturing the raw beauty of the Australian outback, its wildlife, and the people who call it home.

Using acrylic paint, ink, and nib, I bring to life the untamed spirit of the land, the rich character of its people, and the emotions behind every expression. My passion lies in telling stories through color, movement, and detail—whether it’s the piercing gaze of a galah, the rugged charm of a working dog, or the wide horizons of the bush.

Beyond canvas, my art extends to wearable pieces and home décor, from leggings and tote bags to duffel bags and prints, allowing you to carry a piece of the outback wherever you go. But my work is more than just art—it’s a way to give back. Having seen firsthand the challenges faced by rural communities, I proudly support the Black Dog Institute, with a portion of every sale helping to improve mental health in Australia.

When you purchase a Sandy McLean artwork or product, you’re not just investing in vibrant, original art—you’re helping to make a difference. Bring a touch of the outback into your life today.